Cruising the Caribbean is, for many, the trip of a lifetime. Glorious sandy beaches, tropical palm trees, idyllic weather, crystal clear sees and a reputation for being laid back that is world renowned, the Caribbean is a place to let your cares float away and to enjoy some serious relaxation. There are numerous companies online such as Cruisedirect.co.uk or Travelzoo that can help you arrange a Caribbean cruise holidays. Itineraries are usually fairly similar but if there is a particular destination you wish to visit it pays to do your research.
From the UK, most cruises involve a flight to Miami or Orlando in Florida. Not only does this ensure you are in the region but it allows for some great shopping before the cruise – worth bearing in mind if you’re planning on stocking up on holiday clothes. Remember though that in Florida there is a 6.5% sales tax, a little bit of an added expense, but still cheaper than Britain. In Miami there are at least a dozen sprawling malls, so you can be a true 'mallrat' and experience an American shopping tradition and pick up a few bargains.
From the port at Miami, many Caribbean-bound cruises head to Jamaica. One common cruise destination is Ocho Rios, which is located on the North Eastern shore of Jamaica and a popular spot for scuba diving and water sports. Depending on how long you are staying for you may have time to visit the nearby Dunn's River Falls, a series of spectacular waterfalls and one of Jamaica most well-loved and famous attractions. Visitors get a chance to climb one of the waterfalls in a 'human chain’.
After Jamaica, Barbados is probably the most famous of the Caribbean islands – and possibly it’s most laid back (and that’s saying something!). Famous for its rum, sensational beaches and its welcoming people, Barbados is probably the most English of the Caribbean islands and, located almost hundred miles away from its closest neighbour, is one of the most isolated of the islands.
Another popular destination is Grand Cayman Island with its capital George Town. George Town has the most amazing seven-mile beach called quite simply Seven Mile Beach, a sensational spot for sunbathing or, if you want something a little more active, the windsurfing is renowned in the region.
Some cruises then set sail for Cozumel, an island off the Yucatan Peninsula in South Eastern Mexico and another cultural shift – in this case toward a more Spanish influence. Most people that visit the island do so for the beautifully clear seas and because of this the island attracts many snorkellers and scuba divers. Just off the shore there a number of world-class reefs that are extremely popular – the famous undersea explorer Jacques Cousteau promoted them in one of his documentaries. However, Cozumel also offers tourist an excellent opportunity to explore the amazing Mayan Ruins.
Whether you’re planning on taking it easy on deck or on the beach or exploring undersea reefs, it pays to make sure you have adequate travel insurance. Visit one of the online comparison sites such as Travelsupermarket.com to compare policies or visit a travel insurance specialist such as Go Travel.
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